History

Maggot was very cautious for a Hobbit and kept three large dogs to protect him: Fang, Grip, and Wolf. Because Frodo Baggins, while he lived in Brandy Hall, used to steal mushrooms from him, Maggot once beat him and terrified him with his dogs.

On September 25 of Third Age 3018, Maggot was approached by a Nazgûl who asked him about the name Baggins. Maggot told him that the Bagginses are in Hobbiton. The rider told him that this Baggins left Hobbiton and that he would reward him with gold if he informed him the next time he comes. Maggot however, despite the chill this stranger cause to him, was enraged for the trespass, and threatened him with his dogs. The rider hissed, and left like thunder.

Before entering Buckland, Frodo, Sam and Pippin had a stop from his farm. Although Frodo was afraid of him, he met his true personality. Mrs. Maggot served them mugs of beer, and Maggot said the story about the stranger and offered his hospitality for the night. Frodo understood how likable he is in person and felt sorry that he missed a friend for so many years. Since the Hobbits were hasty, Maggot offered them to transport them with his wagon up to the Bucklebury Ferry.

In the night they saw Merry looking for them. After they reached their destination, Maggot went back, not before giving him a gift from Mrs Maggot, a pack of mushrooms.

Etymology

Tolkien says that the name "Maggot" is a Hobbitish name whose meaning is lost in history. Maggot should not be understood as the English word maggot or larva. The similarity is coincidental.